(no subject)
Dear Sirs,
I am writing to inform you of my opinions concerning the Heathrow Airtrack proposals.
Let me say first of all that I am not in complete opposition to the idea of connecting Heathrow more directly with the rail routes in my area. I can see that it will bring great benefits to rail users.
My concerns are firstly that large swathes of countryside will be excavated for these plans, in an area that has already seen considerable construction - the terminal 5 construction to be exact, and as part of the plans it is proposed to move a natural pond with who knows what damage to the wildlife there.
Of a more pressing concern however is the proposal to run many extra trains through the area, something which in theory I am not averse to, without thought to the traffic congestion that it will cause.
The consultation has already highlighted that all 4 level crossings in the Egham area where I live will see considerable increase in use. I read online that BAA (and by inference Heathrow Airtrack) does not consider it, it's responsibility to do anything about this problem. I would strongly disagree. BAA is promoting and supporting this scheme and hence it is clearly encouraging or providing for these additional trains to be run.
Part of the scheme involves removal of an existing level crossing and replacing it with a bridge (at Moor Lane). If the scheme can do that, then surely it can do something about the level crossings. To put it another way the scheme must ensure that something is done to reduce the impact of the extra trains on the surrounding area.
Whilst this scheme continues to ignore these problems, or rather insist that nothing can be done, then I shall be obliged to object to it. In this regard I am have copied my MP in on this communication.
Regards
James
Resident of Pooley Green, Egham.